Leadership and Quality Improvement

Accredited Module

20 credits

Level 7

Module Outline

This module will explore the impact of leadership and quality improvement on professional and service development within cancer care. Learners will critically evaluate clinical leadership styles and challenges, apply quality improvement theory, and examine their role in service innovation. Through evidence‑based strategies and educational frameworks, the module promotes self‑awareness, leadership qualities, and collaborative practice to support development in leadership, evidence‑based improvement, and professional growth.

Fully aligned with the national ACCEND framework (Aspirant Cancer Career and Education Development), this module also supports your professional development journey toward enhanced, advanced, and consultant-level roles in cancer care. This module is part of a wider Postgraduate Certificate in Cancer Care where students must complete all three modules to receive their PGCert award. However, each module can be accessed and completed as a stand-alone module where you will be awarded 20 academic credits at Level 7.

Delivery Method:

Online Interactive Learning

Duration:

200 hours of study

Cost:

£1,200

Next Available Date:

September 2026

Academic Credits

20 credits at Level 7

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Key Topics

Leadership concepts strategies including compassionate leadership 
Evidence based theories and approaches to effective leadership and management  
Factors that influence leadership in a clinical environment
Clinical governance
Team building
Change management, cultures, psychological safety  
Political awareness, horizon scanning
Quality & safety
Improvement and Evaluation Frameworks
Education 

Entry Requirements

Professional Requirements:  

Learners are required to be a registered heath care professional of the following regulatory bodies:  

Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) 
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) 
General Medical Council (GMC) 

Experience:  

Has regular contact with people affected by cancer though consideration will be given to candidates in other settings.    

Academic Qualifications:

Learners will normally hold a relevant degree. If this is not the case, relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. This may also involve the submission of written academic work for assessment. 
Previous study at level 6 or able to demonstrate the ability to study at level 7. 
Competence in written and spoken English.

Clinical Practice Requirements:

Currently employed in the care, treatment and management of people affected by cancer though consideration will be given to candidates in other settings. 

Upcoming Dates

Our next Leadership & Quality Improvement module will start in September 2026. Teaching will be held online on the following dates:

Monday 28th September 2026
Monday 5th October 2026
Monday 12th October 2026
Monday 19th October 2026
Monday 2nd November 2026
Monday 9th November 2026
Monday 16th November 2026
Monday 23rd November 2026

Learning Outcomes

Upon the successful completion of this Level 7 20 credit module, you will be able to: 

Critically reflect on your professional role within the care pathway and wider organisation, evaluating the key skills and qualities for effective leadership, management and organisation of complex situations. 
Critically evaluate current research, professional issues and guidelines that create effectiveness in leadership. 
Demonstrate a critical understanding of theoretical perspectives that promote service delivery and innovation. 
Critically reflect on experiences of education initiatives and analyse leadership strategies to promote the professional development of staff. 

Assessment

A portfolio of 3 blogs reflecting on your learning through the course. 
A case study taken from your area of practice.

This module is accredited by:

Related Courses and Modules

PGCert Cancer Care – Advanced Communications and Psychological Skills – Module 2 
PGCert Cancer Care – Fundamentals in Cancer Care – Module 1
The PGCert in Cancer Care is made up of 3 individual modules, where you must complete all three to complete your PGCert; however, each module can be accessed and completed as a stand alone course.

Interested in the programme?

Click the ‘Register Interest’ button and submit the form. We will be in touch when applications are open.

“Patient experience talk was very powerful and I took the most from this interaction.”
Foundations in Cancer Care
“I have a good understanding now how to take control of the conversation using the Sage and Thyme method. There is now a structure to try and follow which can help with work and everyday life.”
SAGE and THYME Communication Skills
“Great course. I have learnt so much even though I have worked for 10 years at VCC. I feel enlightened and feel like I have greatly benefited from attending.”
Foundations in Cancer Care
“As a student nurse I feel that I have benefited from some additional learning experiences that Uni may not have covered during my degree.”
Foundations in Cancer Care
“I attended this course remotely and I was so impressed with the delivery. I felt that I was included and involved as much as if I had attended in person.”
Foundations in Cancer Care
“I found it really informative and a good mixture of learning and participation. Loved the interactive elements in the afternoon.”
Foundations in Acute Oncology